The Ontario government has released its plan to address housing supply and affordability, and homebuilders couldn’t be happier.

Steve Clark, minister of municipal affairs and housing today revealed More Homes, More Choice: Ontario’s Housing Supply Action Plan, a full-spectrum suite of legislative changes to increase the supply of housing that is affordable and provide families with more meaningful choices on where to live, work and raise their families.

“We’ve heard loud and clear from families across Ontario that finding housing that is affordable takes too long and costs too much,” says Clark. “After years of neglect by the former government, there is now a housing crisis in Ontario and the dream of ownership is out of reach for too many. Our plan will make it easier to build the right type of homes in the right places, giving Ontarians and their families more flexibility when looking for a home they can afford.”

GTA homebuilders, through the Building Industry and Land Development Association (BILD), applaud the action, calling it an important step to address the barriers to new homeownership and rental housing.

“The challenge is a basic one,” says Dave Wilkes, BILD president and CEO. “Previous government policies and procedures have created structural barriers to the efficient operation of the housing market which has resulted in a generational shortfall of housing. Today, the Ford government has signaled its intent to address this problem to ensure that the right type of housing is built at the right price across the Greater Toronto Area.”

Clark says the plan will require a province-wide effort that includes municipalities, non-profits and private industry and will also be a comprehensive all-of-government initiative that will include legislative amendments to 13 government Acts.

The new measures proposed in More Homes, More Choicewould streamline the overly complex development approvals process to remove unnecessary duplication and barriers, making costs and timelines more predictable. The plan would also streamline and simplify the process for creating new rental housing options.

As part of the action plan, our government is also launching A Place to Grow: Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe,to address the needs of the region’s growing population, diversity and local priorities.

“Whether you are a first-time homebuyer, a family looking for a larger apartment to rent or a senior hoping to downsize, our action plan puts people first,” says Clark. “Combined with our government’s investment in renewed community housing, our Housing Supply Action Plan is sending a clear message that no matter what your situation you can count on our government to always put people first.”

Highlights of the plan

Local Planning Appeal Tribunal (LPAT):Changes will be introduced to allow LPAT to make decisions based on the best planning outcome and remove existing restrictions around the introduction of evidence. The number of adjudicators will be increased and case management powers introduced to acknowledge the need to address the backlog/housing supply.

Development Charges: To increase predictability for the industry and consumers around development charges, changes will allow for rates to be locked in at the time of complete site plan or zoning application. There are also provisions that defer DCs for rental buildings until occupancy.

Parkland/S37/Development Charges: A “community benefits authority” is to be introduced that both acknowledges the cumulative effect that taxes, fees and charges have on housing affordability and allows for more certainty and predictability by eliminating “planning by negotiation.” This new benefit will roll together DCs and will have a cap based on property value by municipality.

Red Tape Reductions:To reduce red tape and help streamline approvals, among other actions:

Direction will be provided on how municipalities can use the Ontario Heritage Actwhile allowing for compatible changes and creating consistent appeals.

The role of Conservation Authorities is to be reviewed to make sure that they go back to their core mandate, which will reduce overlap in approvals and reduce costs by streamlining roles.

The Environmental Assessment Actwill be amended to exempt low-risk actions and remove duplications.

“It just takes too long to build new housing in the GTA,” says Wilkes. “This restricts supply and negatively impacts affordability. When you then layer on a disproportionate share of the cost for new infrastructure, parks, and municipal services to new homes, you now have the recipe for what we are currently experiencing.”

The complex regulatory environment, government fees, taxes and charges add as much as 25 per cent to the cost of an average new home in the region, BILD says.

The roposed LPAT changes will have a beneficial impact on supply, BILD says. Currently, there are as many as 1,000 cases, representing almost 100,000 housing units across Ontario waiting for consideration at the LPAT.

The overall focus on reducing red tape and speeding approvals through modifications to the Provincial Policy Statement, The Ontario Heritage Act, The Environmental Assessment Act and many others will enable the industry to unlock housing supply.

“We need more of all types of housing across the GTA – homes for purchase, for rent and social housing,” says Wilkes. “We look forward to working with all levels of government to address housing supply and affordability as the consultation on the proposed changes continues.”

The Canadian Home Builders’ Association (CHBA) has named Bob Finnigan, partner at Herity (Heathwood Homes), CHBA Past President, member of BILD (GTA) and long-time building industry executive, as its Member of the Year.

Great Gulf and Tridel were among the big winners at the recent 39th Annual BILD Awards, as the Building Industry and Land Development Association (BILD) recognized the top builders and developers, projects and marketing initiatives in the industry.

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Proposed changes to the Growth Plan could help address housing challenges

If you hope to own a home in the GTA one day, you received some good news recently. The Ontario government proposed changes to the Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe, the policy that manages growth in our region. The amendments, if approved, would mean more housing supply and choice and, ultimately, better housing affordability.

The Growth Plan was introduced by a previous provincial government in 2006 and was revised in 2017. Both versions brought in new requirements in the planning process. The objective was praiseworthy — to encourage the development of compact, mixed-use communities that would make efficient use of transit, infrastructure and public services.

Unfortunately, many municipalities struggled to meet the new planning requirements, especially density targets that did not recognize the diverse character of our region and did not take into account the availability of transit and infrastructure. For instance, the 2006 Growth Plan called for 50 residents and jobs per hectare in areas that are not yet built up but are designated for future development. This target was already a challenge for many smaller communities that did not have the transit and other infrastructure to support it, yet the 2017 Growth Plan increased it to 80 residents and jobs per hectare. That’s about double the current density of suburban areas like Scarborough and Etobicoke. How would municipalities in rural areas achieve it?

The proposed changes take into account the differences between municipalities and call for varying numbers of residents and jobs per hectare: not less than 60 for Hamilton, Peel, Waterloo and York; not less than 50 for Barrie, Brantford, Guelph, Orillia, Peterborough, Durham, Halton and Niagara; and not less than 40 for Kawartha Lakes, Brant, Dufferin, Haldimand, Northumberland, Peterborough, Simcoe and Wellington. These new density targets are a lot more realistic for municipalities to meet.

The proposed changes to the Growth Plan would also give municipalities some flexibility to develop housing on lands that have previously been designated as employment areas and on small pieces of land that are currently outside their settlement area boundaries.

When municipalities have more flexibility about where and how growth occurs, they can build more housing and the right mix of housing type for their community, while making efficient use of land and maximizing their existing infrastructure. Ultimately, a healthier supply of housing means better housing affordability. That’s great news if you and your family are looking to live, work and own a home in your chosen community, because you are more likely to find the type of home you want and can afford.

Until these proposed changes are implemented, we will continue to face a different reality. The GTA is forecast to grow to 9.7 million people by 2041, yet we are not building enough homes to accommodate this change. We are falling short by about 8,000 to 10,000 homes every year. This supply shortfall drives up home prices and rents, creating pressures that are particularly felt by young families and first-time homebuyers.

The proposed changes to the Growth Plan would help us address this generational challenge. The government is to be applauded for taking these concrete, positive steps in the right direction.

Dave Wilkes is president and CEO of BILD (Building Industry and Land Development Association), and can be found on:

The Canadian Home Builders’ Association (CHBA) has named Bob Finnigan, partner at Herity (Heathwood Homes), CHBA Past President, member of BILD (GTA) and long-time building industry executive, as its Member of the Year.

Great Gulf and Tridel were among the big winners at the recent 39th Annual BILD Awards, as the Building Industry and Land Development Association (BILD) recognized the top builders and developers, projects and marketing initiatives in the industry.

Before you get the keys, you and your builder will do a Pre-Delivery Inspection or PDI. This is an important step – not only does it familiarize you with your new home but it also helps you protect your warranty rights.

Created by fusion of exceptional design, superior quartz quality and cutting-edge technology, HansStone Quartz weaves together intriguing patterns and colours inspired by the diverse Canadian landscape.

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Established in 1987, Caesarstone pioneered the original quartz surface and continues to be a leading developer and manufacturer of premium surfaces. Highly functional and design forward, Caesarstone surfaces have endless application possibilities including kitchen countertops, bathroom vanities, wall paneling, furniture and more.

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Ontario government commits to housing action plan

The Ontario government says it is committed to a housing plan that makes more good quality places to live available for “the hardworking people of the province.”

“In communities all across Ontario, people are struggling to find housing they can afford,” says Steve Clark, minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing. “We’re taking action to help create more housing faster, give people more choice and bring down housing costs.”

Legislation that would make new rental units exempt from rent control, effective Nov. 15, 2018, while preserving rent increase limits for existing tenants

Ending the previous government’s expensive and ineffective Development Charges Rebate Program

Seeking public input on ways the government can remove barriers to building the right kind of housing in the right places. This input will inform a broader housing supply action plan. The consultation includes a downloadable toolkit so community groups can host local roundtables and share their thoughts with the province.

The demand for housing in Ontario has risen rapidly in recent years, driven by strong population growth and low interest rates. However, the supply of housing has not kept pace, leading to higher prices and rents.

Building more housing will also help make Ontario more attractive to businesses and investors, restoring the province to its rightful place as the economic engine of Canada.

“High housing costs are a barrier to job creators, large and small, because employees need affordable places to live,” says Todd Smith, minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade. “Making housing more affordable will encourage people to start and grow businesses, right here at home.”

BILD reaction

“The Building Industry and Land Development Association (BILD) of the GTA is very supportive of the development of a Housing Supply Action Plan for Ontario,” says David Wilkes, president and CEO. “Shortfall in supply is a key factor undermining housing affordability, increasing rents and creating barriers to home ownership. We applaud the Ford government’s commitment to address key issues affecting the housing supply and ultimately the affordability of housing in the GTA.”

TREB approves

The Toronto Real Estate Board, for its part, applauds the Province’s announcement.

“The Toronto Real Estate Board applauds the provincial government for taking action to ensure that our city, region and province have an adequate supply and appropriate mix of housing,” TREB said in a release.

Nowhere are housing supply and mix issues more of a priority than in the GTA, where TREB’s 53,000 members operate, the association says. “TREB realtors work with home buyers and sellers every day and they see the challenges caused by inadequate supply and mix of housing.

“We look forward to participating in the provincial government’s consultation process on this issue and helping our region and province to remain one of the best places to live in the world.”

The Canadian Home Builders’ Association (CHBA) has named Bob Finnigan, partner at Herity (Heathwood Homes), CHBA Past President, member of BILD (GTA) and long-time building industry executive, as its Member of the Year.

Great Gulf and Tridel were among the big winners at the recent 39th Annual BILD Awards, as the Building Industry and Land Development Association (BILD) recognized the top builders and developers, projects and marketing initiatives in the industry.

Before you get the keys, you and your builder will do a Pre-Delivery Inspection or PDI. This is an important step – not only does it familiarize you with your new home but it also helps you protect your warranty rights.

X-Tile is sure to have whatever you need to express your unique individual style. We offer you an exceptional variety of wall and flooring options in ceramic, porcelain, natural stone, glass, mosaic and much more from leading suppliers around the world. Let our knowledgeable and friendly staff help you in your dream renovation or building project.

Sharing Passion & Performance. With our unique expertise and sensibilities, gained from our devotion to sound and music, we are committed to creating excitement and cultural inspiration together with people around the world.

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Fusion Stone is an easy and budget-friendly way to beautifully upgrade your home, inside and out. A patented Shouldice innovation, Fusion Stone is a thin stone veneer that is easily installed with the included stainless steel clips & screws. You just screw it to the wall and it’s “Hooked for Life”.

Fisher & Paykel incorporates the world’s most innovative technologies and produce the most technically advanced, efficient and contemporary styled appliances. DCS created the first line of high end, commercial quality appliances and expanded to pioneer indoor and outdoor kitchen solutions for the at home chef. TRADE ONLY.

Established in 1987, Caesarstone pioneered the original quartz surface and continues to be a leading developer and manufacturer of premium surfaces. Highly functional and design forward, Caesarstone surfaces have endless application possibilities including kitchen countertops, bathroom vanities, wall paneling, furniture and more.

Cosentino is a global, family-owned company that produces and distributes high value innovative surfaces for the world of architecture and design, leaders in their respective segments such as Silestone® Quartz surfaces and Dekton® Ultracompact surfaces. Technologically advanced surfaces that create unique designs for the home and public spaces.

SFA SANIFLO INC. (“SANIFLO”) is the only manufacturer of its kind in North America offering a complete line of macerating toilet systems for residential and light-commercial applications where installation of plumbing fixtures with below-floor drainage is impossible or cost-prohibitive.

Since 1989 Men At Work has specialized in renewing and enlarging older houses in core Toronto neighbourhoods. We are experts in managing the challenges of renovating sensitive old buildings into beautiful, functional, comfortable living spaces.

Euro-Line Appliances has brought elite European engineered appliances to Canadian homes for over 25 years. Our brands exceed expectations and have earned awards in design, engineering, performance, and energy efficiency. All of our cooking, refrigeration, dishwashers, and laundry appliances are created to conserve our non-renewable resources.

We've been proudly serving the community for more than 160 years. We deliver natural gas safely and reliably to two million homes and businesses across Ontario. With safety as our ongoing priority, we're committed to making communities better places to live.

With over 90 years of experience, BLANCO is the leading kitchen sinks and faucets manufacturer. From handcrafted in Germany Steelart® sinks and the beauty of Silgranit®, to the European design faucets, BLANCO products are celebrated worldwide for their unmatched quality and design. Blanco Silgranit® sinks are proudly manufactured in Canada TRADE ONLY.

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The former Ontario government’s growth policies have had the unintended consequences of lengthening the land development and approval process in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area (GTHA), negatively impacting housing supply and affordability.

This is among the key findings in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area Land Supply Analysis from the Building Industry and Land Development Association (BILD) and Malone Given Parsons Ltd. (MGP).

“Growth policies implemented by the former provincial government from 2006 and 2017 have reduced the amount of available land for new housing communities, increased land prices and have caused home prices to skyrocket,” says Dave Wilkes, president and CEO, BILD, referring to the 2006 and 2017 Growth Plans.

“Land use in the province of Ontario is highly regulated and the 2006 and 2017 Growth Plan changes have slowed down the approval process to bring new land on stream for new communities,” adds Matthew Corey, principal, MGP. “Increasing the supply of new land for housing is subject to a process that can take as long as a decade or more.”

The analysis is intended to provide an accurate accounting of greenfield land supply in the GTHA and Simcoe, to determine if the 2031 population and job forecasts of the Growth Plan will be achieved.

Key observations

The percentage of available land that has been approved for new housing communities in the GTHA is 4.5 per cent and decreasing.

Some municipalities in the GTHA have yet to conform to the 2006 Growth Plan requirements, missing the 2009 target by nearly a decade, resulting in less housing being built across GTA municipalities versus Growth Plan forecasts.

As land supply dwindles and as municipal delays increase, the value of serviced land has increased by more than 300 per cent since 2006.

Existing low density neighbourhoods in the GTHA are resistant to intensification, pushing density to urban cores and to new communities near the fringes of the GTHA. The latter are far away from transit and infrastructure, putting a greater reliance on cars and increasing traffic congestion.

More gentle density homes (stacked-townhouses and lowrise apartments) should be built within walking distance of transit in built-up areas of the GTHA. This will maximize investment in infrastructure and transit. However, community resistance to increased density makes building in this area time-consuming, expensive and subject to intervention at the municipal level.

Recommendations

BILD and Malone Given Parsons offer six recommendations to help solve the issues:

Make more vacant land available for new communities

Cut bureaucratic red tape and reduce duplication in the planning and approval process

Avoid pushing too much density to fringe areas and away from transit and existing infrastructure

Encourage moderate or gentle intensification across the region by clarifying and amending Growth Plan policies to encourage intensification across the GTHA

Maximize investment in transit and infrastructure

Provide greater certainty for future development by identifying the agricultural and rural lands in the inner-ring (Whitebelt) as future urban areas in the Growth Plan.

The Canadian Home Builders’ Association (CHBA) has named Bob Finnigan, partner at Herity (Heathwood Homes), CHBA Past President, member of BILD (GTA) and long-time building industry executive, as its Member of the Year.

Great Gulf and Tridel were among the big winners at the recent 39th Annual BILD Awards, as the Building Industry and Land Development Association (BILD) recognized the top builders and developers, projects and marketing initiatives in the industry.

Before you get the keys, you and your builder will do a Pre-Delivery Inspection or PDI. This is an important step – not only does it familiarize you with your new home but it also helps you protect your warranty rights.

Fusion Stone is an easy and budget-friendly way to beautifully upgrade your home, inside and out. A patented Shouldice innovation, Fusion Stone is a thin stone veneer that is easily installed with the included stainless steel clips & screws. You just screw it to the wall and it’s “Hooked for Life”.

Since 1989 Men At Work has specialized in renewing and enlarging older houses in core Toronto neighbourhoods. We are experts in managing the challenges of renovating sensitive old buildings into beautiful, functional, comfortable living spaces.

Cosentino is a global, family-owned company that produces and distributes high value innovative surfaces for the world of architecture and design, leaders in their respective segments such as Silestone® Quartz surfaces and Dekton® Ultracompact surfaces. Technologically advanced surfaces that create unique designs for the home and public spaces.

Euro-Line Appliances has brought elite European engineered appliances to Canadian homes for over 25 years. Our brands exceed expectations and have earned awards in design, engineering, performance, and energy efficiency. All of our cooking, refrigeration, dishwashers, and laundry appliances are created to conserve our non-renewable resources.

We've been proudly serving the community for more than 160 years. We deliver natural gas safely and reliably to two million homes and businesses across Ontario. With safety as our ongoing priority, we're committed to making communities better places to live.

With over 90 years of experience, BLANCO is the leading kitchen sinks and faucets manufacturer. From handcrafted in Germany Steelart® sinks and the beauty of Silgranit®, to the European design faucets, BLANCO products are celebrated worldwide for their unmatched quality and design. Blanco Silgranit® sinks are proudly manufactured in Canada TRADE ONLY.

X-Tile is sure to have whatever you need to express your unique individual style. We offer you an exceptional variety of wall and flooring options in ceramic, porcelain, natural stone, glass, mosaic and much more from leading suppliers around the world. Let our knowledgeable and friendly staff help you in your dream renovation or building project.

Sharing Passion & Performance. With our unique expertise and sensibilities, gained from our devotion to sound and music, we are committed to creating excitement and cultural inspiration together with people around the world.

Created by fusion of exceptional design, superior quartz quality and cutting-edge technology, HansStone Quartz weaves together intriguing patterns and colours inspired by the diverse Canadian landscape.

Fisher & Paykel incorporates the world’s most innovative technologies and produce the most technically advanced, efficient and contemporary styled appliances. DCS created the first line of high end, commercial quality appliances and expanded to pioneer indoor and outdoor kitchen solutions for the at home chef. TRADE ONLY.

Established in 1987, Caesarstone pioneered the original quartz surface and continues to be a leading developer and manufacturer of premium surfaces. Highly functional and design forward, Caesarstone surfaces have endless application possibilities including kitchen countertops, bathroom vanities, wall paneling, furniture and more.

SFA SANIFLO INC. (“SANIFLO”) is the only manufacturer of its kind in North America offering a complete line of macerating toilet systems for residential and light-commercial applications where installation of plumbing fixtures with below-floor drainage is impossible or cost-prohibitive.

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Ontario’s new apprenticeship ratio a boon to home building industry

The Ontario government’s plans to change the 40-year-old apprenticeship system is welcome news to the home building industry.

“This is a game changer,” says Rick Martins, president of the Ontario Home Builders’ Association (OHBA). “This means our industry will finally have a system in place to close the trades skills gap across Ontario. This means employers can finally bring apprentices into their small businesses and train the next generation of skilled trades workers. This opens thousands of new opportunities for youth, and people looking for new employment opportunities.”

COMPETITIVE BOOST

The new one-to-one ratio, a significant change from the current ratio of 3-to-1, will enable home builders and renovators to more easily hire and train new apprentices.

“The existing apprenticeship system in Ontario includes ratios that are among the most restrictive in Canada – this is why it hampers builders,” OHBA CEO Joe Vaccaro told Homes Publishing. “Most other provinces have had a 1-to-1 ratio for years, and as a result Ontario ranks last in Canada in the number of tradespeople with certification. The high ratio limits Ontario’s ability to compete and remain competitive.”

OHBA says it has been recommending lower apprenticeship ratios for about 10 years, to help make Ontario a competitive training and business jurisdiction and removing a major barrier for young people to enter the skilled trades.

“Ontario will grow by more than 4.3 million people in the next 25 years, and with that there will be an overwhelming need for skilled labour in the building and renovation sector,” says Vaccaro. “With this new apprenticeship plan, our members are now going to be able to hire and train the skilled workers they need to build the new housing choice and supply for future #homebelievers.”

For home builders and renovators employing carpenter apprentices, the current ratio of 3-to-1 means a company must have three licensed journeypersons on staff before they can hire an apprentice.

“This ratio may not be a reality that makes sense how builders and renovators operate their businesses,” says Vaccaro. “For example, they may not have the exact mix of employers to apprentices, or they may want to take on more than one apprentice but not have the proportionate number of staff to support additional apprentices.”

Most of us got our start in construction by playing with Lego bricks as kids. It seems that some of us don’t want to grow up. French company, Brickawood International, has developed wood-framed housing kits with interior and exterior walls that are assembled without nails, screws, or glue.

Created by fusion of exceptional design, superior quartz quality and cutting-edge technology, HansStone Quartz weaves together intriguing patterns and colours inspired by the diverse Canadian landscape.

SFA SANIFLO INC. (“SANIFLO”) is the only manufacturer of its kind in North America offering a complete line of macerating toilet systems for residential and light-commercial applications where installation of plumbing fixtures with below-floor drainage is impossible or cost-prohibitive.

To be or not to be technology-driven? To keep pace or not keep pace with the times? To stay ahead of the competition or not stay ahead of the competition? Even Hamlet would have little doubt with these questions because the choices seem pretty obvious. And yet, a surprising number of small- and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) in the construction industry struggle with choosing the right technological paths or even choosing technology at all, simply because this is uncharted territory. Well, time to explore this fascinating world and see what's in it for you.

Technology - today, tomorrow, and the day after

Consumers are rethinking their needs, businesses are redefining their functionalities, industries are growing by leaps and bounds, even as we speak. The reason? The growing impact of and advances in technology. For instance, cloud computing is enabling a more connected world of devices and people, thereby facilitating lower unit costs and better customer relationships. Machine learning is helping fix critical business problems and anticipating potential issues through analytics, thus helping companies enhance the quality of their offerings while improving operations. In short, technology is not just a trend for today or tomorrow – it is the way forward, a way of doing business, and it is here to stay.
Building better businesses: Top IT trends in the construction industry
Naturally, the technological winds of change have been blowing over the construction industry as well. And they have left behind some key IT trends.
1. Building Information Modelling (BIM)
BIM software breaks the shackles of traditional two-dimensional building design. And instead, unleashes not only the power of 3D (width, height, and depth), but also 4D (fourth dimension of time), 5D (fifth dimension of cost), and more recently, 6D (sixth dimension of environmental and sustainability factors), and 7D (seventh dimension of through-life facility management).
This helps the construction industry plan, design, construct, operate, and maintain different structures. Better communication, lower construction costs, faster delivery, and less information loss are just some of the reasons why BIM is the catchphrase of builders.
2. Smart bseluildings
When it comes to buildings, smartness has many dimensions. Literally. Smart buildings are designed, built, and managed using automated processes that integrate various disparate components such as lighting, heating, ventilation, and security systems to maximize efficiency and enable a smarter, more sustainable work flow. They gather raw data from the devices that control the various systems in a building, and, as all things smart, they are continuously learning, unlearning, and improving processes.
3. Augmented Reality (AR)
AR creates and enhances exact replicas of the real world for a better view of the entire project – including its details and precise measurements. This enables designers, architects, engineers, and other stakeholders in the construction industry to get the real picture, plan efficiently, and keep things accurate and cost-effective. In other words, it takes the guesswork out of construction.
4. Robots
Well, the "Employee of the Year" award could soon go to…a robot. And if they can lay bricks at twice the speed and with zero risk of injury or delay, why not?
5. Drones
A drone could be watching these efficient robots – monitoring the progress of a project, carrying out safety inspections, and collecting data for evaluation and improvement of processes. The construction landscape is undoubtedly changing drastically.
6. Cloud computing
To manage your business more efficiently, don't look far. Just look up. Cloud computing has revolutionized the way companies do a variety of operations, from project management to payroll. The advantages are obvious: The right people can access the right information at all times; more flexibility to add users and data; ability to lower costs by eliminating the need for traditional servers and maintenance.
7. Artificial Intelligence (AI)
AI helps businesses stay on top of and make sense of the daily information overload. It can expand the boundaries of the construction industry in diverse ways, ranging from analytical tasks like surveying to detail-oriented tasks like estimating and bookkeeping. Thanks to AI, employees could play increasingly pivotal roles as they could potentially take on more clients and handle more data than ever before.
8. Mobile field technology
Mobile applications have helped the construction industry the become more agile in terms of allowing people to communicate and access documents in real time through a mobile phone or tablet. These applications can also be integrated into existing systems like supply chain management and accounting, to streamline and make these processes efficient.
9. Self-driving vehicles
The wheels are turning for the automobile industry with significant changes happening in the form of self-driving cars. Naturally, the construction industry is expected to follow suit. These driverless vehicles could potentially deliver more loads more efficiently, minimize delays and fuel use, and could be controlled by operators to ensure greater operational safety. Soon, everyone might want a self-driving excavator to do the dirty work.
10. Internet of Things (IoT)
The idea of computing devices, embedded in everyday objects and interconnected via the internet, communicating with each other seamlessly by sending and receiving data is fascinating. And in the construction industry, this can translate into many advantages – the remote operation of machinery, tracking of tools and equipment, automated logging of construction hours, etc.

That's great. But do smaller players need to think this big?

Yes. Thinking big and making a few path-breaking changes has nothing to do with company size, and everything to do with being smart enough to stay on top of current trends, adaptable enough to make the changes that need to be made, and visionary enough to buy into only those technological changes that best suit present as well as future business goals.

No more pain, only gain

Based on a survey conducted by iCinfo, the top ten pain points faced by SMBs are:

Bottlenecks due to inefficient workflow.

Work order backlog due to manual processes and increasing volumes.

Lack of real-time data for accurate inventory management.

Disjointed electronic tools such as spreadsheets and paper-based administration.

Scalability challenges due to lack of skilled labor and other issues.

Problems with reporting on payroll and other aspects of business.

Difficulty in finding critical documents fast.

Complexity of projects and processes.

Bulky paper-based files that consume space and time.

Difficulties in document management and version control.

Now, how can these pain points be tackled, and how much is it going to cost?
Step 1: Don't go through this process alone. Get the unbiased, expert evaluation of a trusted IT consulting firm on your side. Someone who can help you assess your current state, identify issues, provide solutions, help locate the right technological fit and vendor for your company, and finally, can facilitate change management or help your employees transition into a new way of thinking and doing things in the company and for the company.
Step 2: Read the remaining four articles in this five-part series on helping SMBs manage their tech resources and grow their business.
Because the real question is not, "To be or not to be technology-driven?" The real question is – when do you want to start?

Fusion Stone is an easy and budget-friendly way to beautifully upgrade your home, inside and out. A patented Shouldice innovation, Fusion Stone is a thin stone veneer that is easily installed with the included stainless steel clips & screws. You just screw it to the wall and it’s “Hooked for Life”.

X-Tile is sure to have whatever you need to express your unique individual style. We offer you an exceptional variety of wall and flooring options in ceramic, porcelain, natural stone, glass, mosaic and much more from leading suppliers around the world. Let our knowledgeable and friendly staff help you in your dream renovation or building project.

We've been proudly serving the community for more than 160 years. We deliver natural gas safely and reliably to two million homes and businesses across Ontario. With safety as our ongoing priority, we're committed to making communities better places to live.

Established in 1987, Caesarstone pioneered the original quartz surface and continues to be a leading developer and manufacturer of premium surfaces. Highly functional and design forward, Caesarstone surfaces have endless application possibilities including kitchen countertops, bathroom vanities, wall paneling, furniture and more.

Based on his extensive knowledge of tile assemblies, Werner Schlüter has consistently met the needs of a rapidly evolving industry by developing practical solutions to tile installation challenges. What began as a modest idea has since evolved into a company with over 40 product lines that are promoted in countries around the world.

To be or not to be technology-driven? To keep pace or not keep pace with the times? To stay ahead of the competition or not stay ahead of the competition? Even Hamlet would have little doubt with these questions because the choices seem pretty obvious. And yet, a surprising number of small- and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) in the construction industry struggle with choosing the right technological paths or even choosing technology at all, simply because this is uncharted territory. Well, time to explore this fascinating world and see what's in it for you.

Technology - today, tomorrow, and the day after

Consumers are rethinking their needs, businesses are redefining their functionalities, industries are growing by leaps and bounds, even as we speak. The reason? The growing impact of and advances in technology. For instance, cloud computing is enabling a more connected world of devices and people, thereby facilitating lower unit costs and better customer relationships. Machine learning is helping fix critical business problems and anticipating potential issues through analytics, thus helping companies enhance the quality of their offerings while improving operations. In short, technology is not just a trend for today or tomorrow – it is the way forward, a way of doing business, and it is here to stay.
Building better businesses: Top IT trends in the construction industry
Naturally, the technological winds of change have been blowing over the construction industry as well. And they have left behind some key IT trends.
1. Building Information Modelling (BIM)
BIM software breaks the shackles of traditional two-dimensional building design. And instead, unleashes not only the power of 3D (width, height, and depth), but also 4D (fourth dimension of time), 5D (fifth dimension of cost), and more recently, 6D (sixth dimension of environmental and sustainability factors), and 7D (seventh dimension of through-life facility management).
This helps the construction industry plan, design, construct, operate, and maintain different structures. Better communication, lower construction costs, faster delivery, and less information loss are just some of the reasons why BIM is the catchphrase of builders.
2. Smart bseluildings
When it comes to buildings, smartness has many dimensions. Literally. Smart buildings are designed, built, and managed using automated processes that integrate various disparate components such as lighting, heating, ventilation, and security systems to maximize efficiency and enable a smarter, more sustainable work flow. They gather raw data from the devices that control the various systems in a building, and, as all things smart, they are continuously learning, unlearning, and improving processes.
3. Augmented Reality (AR)
AR creates and enhances exact replicas of the real world for a better view of the entire project – including its details and precise measurements. This enables designers, architects, engineers, and other stakeholders in the construction industry to get the real picture, plan efficiently, and keep things accurate and cost-effective. In other words, it takes the guesswork out of construction.
4. Robots
Well, the "Employee of the Year" award could soon go to…a robot. And if they can lay bricks at twice the speed and with zero risk of injury or delay, why not?
5. Drones
A drone could be watching these efficient robots – monitoring the progress of a project, carrying out safety inspections, and collecting data for evaluation and improvement of processes. The construction landscape is undoubtedly changing drastically.
6. Cloud computing
To manage your business more efficiently, don't look far. Just look up. Cloud computing has revolutionized the way companies do a variety of operations, from project management to payroll. The advantages are obvious: The right people can access the right information at all times; more flexibility to add users and data; ability to lower costs by eliminating the need for traditional servers and maintenance.
7. Artificial Intelligence (AI)
AI helps businesses stay on top of and make sense of the daily information overload. It can expand the boundaries of the construction industry in diverse ways, ranging from analytical tasks like surveying to detail-oriented tasks like estimating and bookkeeping. Thanks to AI, employees could play increasingly pivotal roles as they could potentially take on more clients and handle more data than ever before.
8. Mobile field technology
Mobile applications have helped the construction industry the become more agile in terms of allowing people to communicate and access documents in real time through a mobile phone or tablet. These applications can also be integrated into existing systems like supply chain management and accounting, to streamline and make these processes efficient.
9. Self-driving vehicles
The wheels are turning for the automobile industry with significant changes happening in the form of self-driving cars. Naturally, the construction industry is expected to follow suit. These driverless vehicles could potentially deliver more loads more efficiently, minimize delays and fuel use, and could be controlled by operators to ensure greater operational safety. Soon, everyone might want a self-driving excavator to do the dirty work.
10. Internet of Things (IoT)
The idea of computing devices, embedded in everyday objects and interconnected via the internet, communicating with each other seamlessly by sending and receiving data is fascinating. And in the construction industry, this can translate into many advantages – the remote operation of machinery, tracking of tools and equipment, automated logging of construction hours, etc.

That's great. But do smaller players need to think this big?

Yes. Thinking big and making a few path-breaking changes has nothing to do with company size, and everything to do with being smart enough to stay on top of current trends, adaptable enough to make the changes that need to be made, and visionary enough to buy into only those technological changes that best suit present as well as future business goals.

No more pain, only gain

Based on a survey conducted by iCinfo, the top ten pain points faced by SMBs are:

Bottlenecks due to inefficient workflow.

Work order backlog due to manual processes and increasing volumes.

Lack of real-time data for accurate inventory management.

Disjointed electronic tools such as spreadsheets and paper-based administration.

Scalability challenges due to lack of skilled labor and other issues.

Problems with reporting on payroll and other aspects of business.

Difficulty in finding critical documents fast.

Complexity of projects and processes.

Bulky paper-based files that consume space and time.

Difficulties in document management and version control.

Now, how can these pain points be tackled, and how much is it going to cost?
Step 1: Don't go through this process alone. Get the unbiased, expert evaluation of a trusted IT consulting firm on your side. Someone who can help you assess your current state, identify issues, provide solutions, help locate the right technological fit and vendor for your company, and finally, can facilitate change management or help your employees transition into a new way of thinking and doing things in the company and for the company.
Step 2: Read the remaining four articles in this five-part series on helping SMBs manage their tech resources and grow their business.
Because the real question is not, "To be or not to be technology-driven?" The real question is – when do you want to start?

If you’ve got a project in mind, whether it’s a major renovation, or a small interior design update, the National Home Show is the place to go for inspiration, resources, and to meet the people and companies that can help you get it done.

The View From Inside: The Fallout From A Double Whammy

Fair Housing Plan plus new mortgage stress test has affected many new homebuyers

The year 2017 was an eventful one for new home sales in the GTA. The first two quarters represented the height of the market with regard to prices for both new and resale homes. New homebuyers went into their purchases with expectations that between the time they bought and when their homes were move-in ready, the value of their current home would have appreciated anywhere from 5 to 10 per cent, depending on location.

Then the Ontario government introduced the Fair Housing Plan, intended to, among other goals, curtail overheated markets and make homes more affordable. The plan included the implementation of a 15 per cent Non-Resident Speculation Tax on the purchase or acquisition of specific residential properties in the province by foreign corporations or individuals who are not citizens or permanent residents of Canada. Since foreign buyers account for less than 10 per cent of these purchases in the GTA, the impact was negligible, but it did have a negative effect on consumer confidence.

The double part of the whammy I mention in the title of this column refers to the stricter mortgage rules Canada’s federal banking regulator announced in October, which took effect on January 1. The new rules, which apply to new mortgages as well as mortgage renewals if borrowers switch lenders, extend the requirement for a mortgage stress test to all homebuyers including those with larger down payments.

Federally regulated financial institutions (Tier 1 banks) must qualify applicants by using a minimum rate equal to the Bank of Canada’s five year benchmark rate (5.14 per cent on April 4) or their contractual rate plus 2 percentage points. In December, a Bank of Canada analysis suggested that approximately 10 per cent of Canadians who obtained mortgages between mid 2016 and mid 2017 would not qualify under the new rules. The net effect means that for many Canadians, the amount they will be able to borrow in a mortgage will, given their income and a certain down payment, be significantly reduced.

These two policies combined have resulted in buyers sitting on the sidelines, some decline in resale home prices (the picture is different in condominiums) depending on where the property is located, which in turn led to a swing in the resale market to a more stable balance between sellers and buyers.

What is frustrating to many industry participants is the lack of consideration given in these policies to those who purchased homes in the first half of 2017 and are now ready to move into the new home.

Their incomes are likely the same, or possibly increased, and their down payment is still with the builder. Yet what they expected to obtain in a mortgage amount could be vastly lower than they were pre-approved for 12 months ago.

Tony Hunt is CFO of Geranium. For more than 40 years, Geranium has been creating many superb master-planned communities and built more than 8,000 homes in Ontario. Geranium.com

The Canadian Home Builders’ Association (CHBA) has named Bob Finnigan, partner at Herity (Heathwood Homes), CHBA Past President, member of BILD (GTA) and long-time building industry executive, as its Member of the Year.

Great Gulf and Tridel were among the big winners at the recent 39th Annual BILD Awards, as the Building Industry and Land Development Association (BILD) recognized the top builders and developers, projects and marketing initiatives in the industry.

Before you get the keys, you and your builder will do a Pre-Delivery Inspection or PDI. This is an important step – not only does it familiarize you with your new home but it also helps you protect your warranty rights.

Through our customer feedback, we have learned the importance of ‘service’. You said and we listened. We addressed your needs and improvised; bringing you services and quality no one in the industry offers.

Euro-Line Appliances has brought elite European engineered appliances to Canadian homes for over 25 years. Our brands exceed expectations and have earned awards in design, engineering, performance, and energy efficiency. All of our cooking, refrigeration, dishwashers, and laundry appliances are created to conserve our non-renewable resources.

SFA SANIFLO INC. (“SANIFLO”) is the only manufacturer of its kind in North America offering a complete line of macerating toilet systems for residential and light-commercial applications where installation of plumbing fixtures with below-floor drainage is impossible or cost-prohibitive.

Established in 1987, Caesarstone pioneered the original quartz surface and continues to be a leading developer and manufacturer of premium surfaces. Highly functional and design forward, Caesarstone surfaces have endless application possibilities including kitchen countertops, bathroom vanities, wall paneling, furniture and more.

Fusion Stone is an easy and budget-friendly way to beautifully upgrade your home, inside and out. A patented Shouldice innovation, Fusion Stone is a thin stone veneer that is easily installed with the included stainless steel clips & screws. You just screw it to the wall and it’s “Hooked for Life”.

Fisher & Paykel incorporates the world’s most innovative technologies and produce the most technically advanced, efficient and contemporary styled appliances. DCS created the first line of high end, commercial quality appliances and expanded to pioneer indoor and outdoor kitchen solutions for the at home chef. TRADE ONLY.

Created by fusion of exceptional design, superior quartz quality and cutting-edge technology, HansStone Quartz weaves together intriguing patterns and colours inspired by the diverse Canadian landscape.

With over 90 years of experience, BLANCO is the leading kitchen sinks and faucets manufacturer. From handcrafted in Germany Steelart® sinks and the beauty of Silgranit®, to the European design faucets, BLANCO products are celebrated worldwide for their unmatched quality and design. Blanco Silgranit® sinks are proudly manufactured in Canada TRADE ONLY.

Sharing Passion & Performance. With our unique expertise and sensibilities, gained from our devotion to sound and music, we are committed to creating excitement and cultural inspiration together with people around the world.

We've been proudly serving the community for more than 160 years. We deliver natural gas safely and reliably to two million homes and businesses across Ontario. With safety as our ongoing priority, we're committed to making communities better places to live.

Since 1989 Men At Work has specialized in renewing and enlarging older houses in core Toronto neighbourhoods. We are experts in managing the challenges of renovating sensitive old buildings into beautiful, functional, comfortable living spaces.

Cosentino is a global, family-owned company that produces and distributes high value innovative surfaces for the world of architecture and design, leaders in their respective segments such as Silestone® Quartz surfaces and Dekton® Ultracompact surfaces. Technologically advanced surfaces that create unique designs for the home and public spaces.

X-Tile is sure to have whatever you need to express your unique individual style. We offer you an exceptional variety of wall and flooring options in ceramic, porcelain, natural stone, glass, mosaic and much more from leading suppliers around the world. Let our knowledgeable and friendly staff help you in your dream renovation or building project.

Euro-Line Appliances has brought elite European engineered appliances to Canadian homes for over 25 years. Our brands exceed expectations and have earned awards in design, engineering, performance, and energy efficiency. All of our cooking, refrigeration, dishwashers, and laundry appliances are created to conserve our non-renewable resources.

MyShades has been a leader in the window coverings industry for more than 35 years. We have served as a major Hunter Douglas Gallery dealer for Toronto and GTA homeowners and businesses. MyShades has been and will always be committed to delivering the highest level of products, service, and selection to our customers. Our goal remains to be number one in the industry and the hearts of our customers and interior designers throughout Toronto and the GTA.

Merit Travel delivers authentic travel experiences to the world’s top destinations, with a team of passionate and dedicated Travel Consultants at our locations across Canada. We know that not all vacations can be created with a few clicks, and that’s what we’re here for—to put the pieces together, do the research, negotiate the deals, customize itineraries and create the perfect getaway for you.

Build Bold Inc is a unique and competitive online marketplace offering the only the best names in building and renovation supplies at great prices. We are an independent, Canadian owned & operated company, located near the Greater Toronto Area. We are constantly striving to enhance and improve our business by offering a simple and convenient online ordering model as well as an easy mobile tool for people on the go.

Custom Drapes and Drapery, California Shutters, Blinds and Shades has been our only business since 1985. You will only deal with trained, experienced drapery specialists, curtain makers and window treatment installers. From Hunter Douglas, Elite, Levolor, Sunglow and others, we offer the best in world-class Drapery, Curtains, California Shutters, Blinds and Shades that meet your requirements and budget.